Easy Ground Beef Comfort

Comfort food gets no easier than this quick ground beef skillet The combination of well seasoned beef tender veggies tangy tomatoes and gooey cheese makes this a family favorite you will come back to week after week Whether you need something reliable on busy evenings or want a no fuss dish for casual get togethers this simple recipe always hits the spot

This recipe first became a staple when my oldest requested something cheesy and hearty after a long school day Now it is a weekly ritual that everyone gets excited for

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 80 percent lean ensures moist flavorful meat look for beef with a bright cherry red color and little excess liquid
• Onion: adds subtle sweetness and builds the dish’s base yellow or white onions work best for this recipe
• Garlic: gives an unmistakable depth and aroma use fresh cloves for the most vibrant taste
• Bell peppers: bring color crunch and a mild sweetness try to choose firm peppers without wrinkles avoid any soft spots
• Crushed tomatoes: provide a saucy tangy backbone go for high quality canned tomatoes with minimal added salt
• Cumin: supplies an earthy warmth which pairs beautifully with beef
• Paprika: imparts smokiness and color for extra flavor I like Spanish paprika
• Dried oregano: brings herby fragrance and a gentle bitterness
• Shredded cheese: cheddar or Monterey Jack both melt beautifully and add that crave worthy finish go for a block you shred yourself for the best melt

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:

Finely chop the onion peel and mince garlic and dice your bell peppers Aim for evenly sized pieces for a consistent texture and flavor distribution

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat a splash of oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add onions and cook slowly until translucent stirring often This typically takes about five minutes Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute just until fragrant do not let it brown

Brown the Beef:

Crumble the ground beef into the skillet breaking it into small pieces Cook for about seven to ten minutes until it is browned throughout and any excess liquid has mostly evaporated Through this step the beef picks up all the flavor from the aromatics

Cook the Vegetables and Spices:

Add the chopped bell peppers cumin paprika and dried oregano Stir well to coat and cook for five minutes This allows the spices to bloom and the peppers to soften slightly

Simmer with Tomatoes:

Pour in the crushed tomatoes stir to combine Reduce the heat to low Simmer uncovered for fifteen minutes letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly Stir occasionally as the sauce can stick if left alone

Add the Cheese:

Evenly sprinkle shredded cheese over the skillet Cover to trap heat and let the cheese melt for about three minutes Remove cover right before serving for a gooey cheesy topping

Serve Hot:

Spoon hot portions onto plates or into bowls Enjoy immediately or garnish with fresh herbs if desired

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I always look forward to the melty cheese on top that stretch as I serve it My youngest loves helping sprinkle the cheese and watching it melt is half the fun in our house

Storage Tips

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days If you want to freeze this meal let it cool completely and divide into individual portions Before serving from frozen thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve flavor and texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option For a vegetarian version try crumbled tempeh or a sturdy lentil blend Use any combination of bell peppers you like or swap in zucchini if that is what you have on hand Monterey Jack and cheddar are classic but feel free to add a handful of mozzarella or pepper jack for variety

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines on its own but can easily be stretched further Serve with a side of steamed rice warm tortillas or over buttered noodles For a fresh finish top with chopped cilantro a dollop of sour cream or pickled jalapenos For extra veggies a salad with a citrusy dressing pairs well

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Cultural Context

Ground beef dishes are classic comfort food across many cultures Each family might give it their unique touch by swapping spices or adding beans or corn This version combines classic American flavors with a slight Tex Mex twist something my Midwest relatives always request when they visit

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I keep the ground beef tender?

Use medium heat and avoid over-mixing when browning the beef to maintain a tender texture. Stir just enough to break up clumps, then let it cook until browned.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, cheddar and Monterey Jack work well, but feel free to try mozzarella or a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.

→ How do I add more vegetables?

Stir in chopped zucchini, carrots, or frozen corn along with the bell peppers. Add just before the simmer to retain some crunch and color.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Serve over rice, pasta, or warm crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. A crisp green salad is a fresh pairing.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Cool thoroughly and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the beef mixture in advance and add cheese just before serving for the best texture and flavor.